UNWIND ON ONE OF CORNWALL’S MOST SERENE BEACHES.

 

White hawthorn blossom borders the soft white sand of Porthcothan Bay, which is hugged by green coast path left and right. A gentle walk across the wave ridged sand of the cove at low tide leads you to Trescore Islands, a rugged scattering of sea stacks creating a turquoise lagoon which turns crystal clear in the sunlight. Take a dip in icy cool water, paddle bare toes in foamy shores or simply sit and listen to the gentle rustle of the beachgrass. However you want to spend your beach day, Porthcothan invites you to do it in the utmost serenity.

Situated on the North coast between Padstow and Watergate Bay, this small village is a great base for the array of coastal walks that can start at its shores. The stretch of coastline between Carnewas and Bedruthan Steps takes you through the rugged, untouched beauty of Cornwall, showcasing panoramas and endless horizons alongside the occasional Cornish chough. We doubt you’ll want to leave this hidden gem, but if you do, you’ll find the popular beach Constantine Bay and the nearest village of St Merryn only a ten-minute drive away.

Rockpools at low tide.

Grassy cliffs overlooking the beach.

THE DETAILS

FOOD AND DRINK

Porthcothan Bay Stores fill hungry stomachs with freshly baked pasties and ice creams. You’ll also find the Tredrea Inn or the Berryfields Farm Café for classic cream teas. Fine food lovers are also in luck, with the heady gastronomic delights of Padstow and Watergate Bay an easy drive away.

CAN I BRING MY DOG?

Porthcothan is a dog-friendly beach all year round, with no seasonal dog ban in place. Some of the county’s most spectacular coastal walking routes are also a short walk away, with dogs welcome on the entire 630-mile stretch of coast path throughout the year.

ACCESSIBILITY

Parking, shops and toilet facilities are all close by in the village. There is also level access onto the beach. Lifeguards patrol the beach from late May until the end of September.

PORTHCOTHAN INSPIRATION

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